That means Kirby Smart, Alabama’s top assistant, is a long shot. This is news because Hart, the former executive athletic director at Alabama, is close to Smart, the Tide’s defensive coordinator.

If that’s the case—and why wouldn’t we take Hart at his word?—that means the Vols already have zeroed in on a specific group of coaches. A look at the top candidates for a top 20 job:

Jon Gruden, ESPN analyst

The dream choice for Tennessee fans. But reality is, the one-time Vols assistant isn’t leaving the booth for the college game. If he goes anywhere, it’s the NFL.

Jim Tressel

This is a very real possibility. He wants back in, and his NCAA show-cause sanctions aren’t the kind that will impact the program. Think future, Tennessee. The guy can flat out coach. He can recruit, he can build an elite staff, he knows what it takes to build a champion.

Gary Patterson, TCU

Schools have been trying to pry Patterson from Fort Worth for years, but the right job has never come available. This may be it. It’s the SEC, with immaculate facilities and an open checkbook.

Jimbo Fisher, Florida State

This isn’t so much about Florida State, the program, as it is ACC, the conference. One loss in the ACC, and you’ve got little or no chance to win it all. In the SEC? That’s a speed bump.

Hugh Freeze, Ole Miss

It’s amazing what Freeze has accomplished in Oxford considering the mess he inherited. Would he leave Ole Miss after one season for Tennessee? It’s a no-brainer. It’s harsh, but it’s also reality.